Definition

A printed or digital book featuring photographs, descriptions, and prices of merchandise available for purchase, typically distributed by mail or online for ordering. A primary shopping method before e-commerce.

Example Usage

She flipped through the latest catalog to find a dress for the party.

Origin

Catalogs evolved from simple price lists in the 19th century; Montgomery Ward's 1872 mail-order catalog is often credited as a pioneering example.

Fun Fact

Department store catalogs were sometimes called 'wish books' because children would circle items they wanted as gifts.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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